Still time to sign up for the Swadlincote Pancake Races

Only days remain until the teams go to battle in the Swadlincote Pancake Races 2017 – but there is still time to sign up to take your place on the starting line.

More than 20 businesses have so far pledged to tackle the obstacle-laden course on The Delph market square on Shrove Tuesday 28 February 2017, with teams of four and company mascots all preparing to flip for success.

Teams can be from businesses, organisations, schools or simply groups of friends, with the £4 per team entry fee going straight to Comic Relief.

This year’s races begin at noon, 45 minutes after pupils from Swadlincote’s Belmont Primary School show their credentials on the course.

The overall winners will take home the much sought-after golden frying pan.

Members of the public are urged to turn out on the day to show their support and enjoy lunch courtesy of Ooh La La Crepes, which will be trading on The Delph, while Betty’s Farm Shop will be selling its free range eggs for those planning to test their own pancake-making skills.

The Sainsbury’s Waste less, Save more Food Saver Champions will also be on hand to offer top tips on reducing food waste and rustling up tasty recipes.

Cllr Bob Wheeler, Leader of event organiser South Derbyshire District Council, said: “The pancake races are a real spectacle and we’d urge as many people as possible to either get involved or come down to watch the action. You won’t be disappointed.

“All participants can choose to wear fancy dress or corporate attire, but the most important thing is that everyone has fun.

“Shoppers are sure to find something to tickle their taste buds too on what is always a great occasion – and all for a brilliant cause.”

Anyone wishing to take part can enter a team by registering on Eventbrite or by email: tic@sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk or by calling Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre, tel: 01283 222848.

This year’s event is being supported by Active Nation, Evisa Personal Fitness Club, Sainsbury’s, Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre and Swadlincote Markets.

You can follow all the action throughout the day on the South Derbyshire District Council Twitter page and share your own photographs and experiences by using the hashtag #swadpancakeraces.

17 February 2017